SEAT ATECA Buying Guide & Reliability (2016-2023)

The SEAT ATECA is a compact SUV that has been on the market since 2016, with production continuing through to 2023. With a total of 568 registration plates recorded, the ATECA has established itself as a popular choice among UK drivers.

Last updated September 08, 2025 1998 words Based on real UK vehicle data

SEAT ATECA Overview

The SEAT ATECA is a compact SUV that has been on the market since 2016, with production continuing through to 2023. With a total of 568 registration plates recorded, the ATECA has established itself as a popular choice among UK drivers.

In terms of performance, the ATECA boasts a commendable MOT pass rate of 89.6%. This statistic reflects the vehicle's reliability and overall build quality. However, like any vehicle, it is not without its common issues. The most frequent failures noted during MOT tests include tyres (58 instances), brakes (39), and windscreens (15). Other areas of concern include suspension and miscellaneous issues, with 11 and 12 failures respectively.

Fuel type distribution shows a preference for petrol, with 419 petrol models compared to 149 diesel variants. This trend may reflect the growing demand for more environmentally friendly options among consumers. The ATECA is available in a variety of colours, with grey (137), white (134), and black (97) being the most popular choices.

Yearly distribution of the ATECA registrations indicates a strong presence in the market, particularly in 2019 with 155 registrations, followed closely by 2018 (151) and 2021 (19). The latest models, from 2022 and 2023, have seen limited registrations, with only 8 and 2 respectively.

Regarding tax status, the majority of ATECA vehicles are taxed (544), while a small number remain untaxed (20) or are declared SORN (4). The average annual mileage for ATECA owners is approximately 8,317 miles, suggesting a moderate usage pattern.

Data accuracy is subject to change, and while every effort has been made to ensure the information is current, it is advisable to verify details with official sources.

Reliability and MOT Performance

The SEAT ATECA has established itself as a reliable choice in the compact SUV segment since its introduction in 2016. With a total of 568 registration plates recorded, this model has undergone 2,701 MOT tests, achieving an impressive pass rate of 89.6%. This statistic indicates that the majority of ATECA vehicles are well-maintained and meet the necessary safety and environmental standards.

When examining common reasons for MOT failures, tyres emerge as the most frequent issue, accounting for 58 failures. This is followed by brakes, which contributed to 39 failures, and windscreens, with 15. Other notable failure categories include suspension (11 failures) and miscellaneous issues (12 failures). These figures suggest that while the ATECA generally performs well, owners should pay particular attention to these areas to ensure ongoing reliability.

In terms of fuel type distribution, the SEAT ATECA is predominantly petrol-powered, with 419 petrol vehicles compared to 149 diesel models. This preference for petrol may reflect broader trends in consumer choice, as petrol engines are often associated with lower emissions and better fuel economy in urban settings.

Colour preferences among ATECA owners show a strong inclination towards grey (137 vehicles) and white (134 vehicles), with black (97) and blue (96) also being popular choices. Red vehicles are less common, with only 39 registered.

Regarding the age distribution of the ATECA, the majority of vehicles on the road are from 2019 (155 vehicles) and 2018 (151 vehicles), indicating a solid presence of relatively newer models. The average annual mileage for these vehicles stands at 8,317 miles, suggesting that they are used regularly but not excessively.

It is important to note that the data presented here is based on available statistics and may not reflect the performance of every individual vehicle. Always consult a professional for specific vehicle assessments.

What to Check When Buying Used

When considering a used SEAT ATECA, there are several key factors to evaluate to ensure you make a sound investment. With 568 registered vehicles in the UK from model years 2016 to 2023, it’s essential to conduct thorough checks.

Firstly, review the vehicle's MOT history. The SEAT ATECA boasts an impressive MOT pass rate of 89.6%, indicating that most vehicles are in good condition. However, be aware of common failures. The most frequent issues reported include tyres (58 failures), brakes (39 failures), and windscreens (15 failures). These areas should be inspected closely during your assessment.

Next, consider the vehicle's mileage. The average annual mileage for the SEAT ATECA is approximately 8,317 miles. A vehicle with significantly higher mileage may have more wear and tear, while one with lower mileage could be a better option.

Fuel type is another important aspect. Of the registered ATECA models, 419 are petrol and 149 are diesel. Depending on your driving habits and preferences, this may influence your choice.

Colour preference can also play a role in your decision. The most common colours for the SEAT ATECA are grey (137), white (134), and black (97). Choosing a popular colour may enhance resale value in the future.

Lastly, check the tax status of the vehicle. Out of the 568 registered ATECA models, 544 are currently taxed, while 20 are untaxed and 4 are SORN. Ensure that the vehicle you are considering is taxed to avoid any additional costs.

Always verify the accuracy of the data and consider obtaining a professional inspection before finalising your purchase.

Running Costs and Specifications

Running Costs and Specifications

The SEAT ATECA, produced between 2016 and 2023, has established itself as a popular choice among UK drivers, with a total of 568 registration plates recorded. This compact SUV offers a blend of practicality and performance, making it a strong contender in its class.

In terms of running costs, the ATECA boasts a commendable MOT pass rate of 89.6%. This statistic indicates a generally reliable vehicle, although it is essential to be aware of common failures. The most frequent issues reported include tyres (58 failures), brakes (39 failures), and windscreens (15 failures). Other notable concerns involve suspension and miscellaneous issues, with 11 and 12 failures respectively.

Fuel type distribution shows a preference for petrol, with 419 petrol models compared to 149 diesel variants. This may influence running costs, as petrol engines typically offer lower fuel expenses in urban settings. The average annual mileage for ATECA owners is approximately 8,317 miles, which can help in estimating fuel consumption and overall running costs.

When considering the vehicle's colour, grey is the most popular choice, accounting for 137 registrations, followed closely by white (134) and black (97). This variety allows potential buyers to select a model that suits their aesthetic preferences.

Tax status data reveals that 544 ATECA vehicles are currently taxed, while 20 are untaxed and 4 are declared SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification). This information is crucial for prospective buyers to understand the vehicle's legal standing on the road.

Overall, the SEAT ATECA presents a balanced option for those seeking a reliable and efficient SUV. However, potential buyers should consider the common issues and running costs associated with this model. Please note that the data provided is based on available statistics and may not reflect the most current market conditions.

Alternative Models to Consider

If you're considering the SEAT ATECA, it's worth exploring some alternative models that may suit your needs. The compact SUV segment is competitive, and several vehicles offer similar features and performance.

One notable alternative is the Skoda Karoq. Like the ATECA, the Karoq is known for its spacious interior and practicality. It also boasts a strong reliability record, making it a solid choice for families.

Another option is the Nissan Qashqai, which has been a popular choice in the UK market for years. The Qashqai offers a comfortable ride, advanced safety features, and a range of efficient engines, appealing to a broad audience.

The Ford Kuga is also worth considering. With its dynamic styling and engaging driving experience, the Kuga provides a sporty alternative to the ATECA. It comes with a variety of engine options, including hybrid variants, catering to those looking for fuel efficiency.

For those prioritising a more premium feel, the Volkswagen Tiguan is an excellent choice. It shares a platform with the ATECA but offers a more upscale interior and a range of high-tech features, making it a strong contender in the compact SUV market.

When comparing these models, consider factors such as fuel type, as the ATECA has a distribution of 419 petrol and 149 diesel vehicles. Additionally, the ATECA has an MOT pass rate of 89.6%, with common failures primarily in tyres and brakes. This data can help inform your decision.

Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your specific requirements and preferences. Always ensure to conduct thorough research and test drives to find the model that best fits your lifestyle.

Note: The data provided is based on the latest available statistics and may be subject to change.

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the SEAT ATECA's MOT pass rate?

The SEAT ATECA boasts an impressive MOT pass rate of 89.6%. This statistic indicates that the majority of ATECA vehicles successfully pass their MOT tests, reflecting their reliability and overall condition.

2. What are the common reasons for MOT failures?

Common failures for the SEAT ATECA include issues with tyres (58 failures), brakes (39 failures), and windscreens (15 failures). Other categories contributing to failures include suspension (11 failures) and miscellaneous issues (12 failures).

3. How many SEAT ATECA vehicles are currently registered in the UK?

As of now, there are 568 registered SEAT ATECA vehicles in the UK. This number reflects the model's popularity and presence in the market since its launch in 2016.

4. What fuel types are available for the SEAT ATECA?

The SEAT ATECA is available in both petrol and diesel variants, with 419 petrol and 149 diesel vehicles registered. This variety allows buyers to choose a model that best suits their driving preferences and needs.

5. What colours are most popular for the SEAT ATECA?

In terms of colour distribution, grey is the most popular choice, with 137 vehicles, followed closely by white (134) and black (97). Other colours include blue (96) and red (39).

6. How many miles do SEAT ATECA owners typically drive annually?

The average annual mileage for SEAT ATECA owners is approximately 8,317 miles. This figure can help potential buyers gauge the typical usage of the vehicle.

Disclaimer: The data presented here is based on the latest available statistics and may be subject to change. Always verify with official sources for the most accurate information.

Data Source: This guide is based on analysis of extensive UK vehicle database in our database, including MOT test results and DVLA records.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for guidance only and is based on historical data in our database. Always verify current vehicle details with official sources and get a professional inspection before purchase.

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